Over the course of this week, you and your group will be disassembling and reassembling a computer. Before you are allowed to touch a tool or computer, you must have the following sections of your safety passport filled out and signed by me:
- Student Safety Rules in a Technological Education Facility
- Cable Use
- Computer & Electrical Devices
- Electrical Hazards
- Facility Emergency Procedures
- First Aid
- First Aid Kits
- Hand Tools
Accordingly, you will observe all necessary safety precautions and practices while working on your computer. Any horseplay or inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated.
- 1 x Old computer - Before beginning this process, plug the computer into a power outlet with a keyboard and monitor attached. Take note of whether or not the computer will power up, boot or not. At no time during this process is your computer to be attached to the network.
- 1 x Phillips Head Screwdriver
- 1 x Needle Nose Pliers
- 1 x Digital Multi-meter
- 1 x Anti-static Pad and Insulated Wristband
- 1 x Camera
- 1 x Activity Binder/Folder
- A written description for each part removed is to be included in the Activity Binder. This may require further on-line research via the Internet or other source.
- Where there may be confusion as to re-assembly, a marker is to be used to clearly match up the part with the insertion point.
- A diagram is to be made showing the parts, and where they are in relation to each other. It is critical that parts and their location in the computer be fully diagrammed before removal.
- The function of each part is to be described.
- The complete activity is to be documented by video (with ongoing, audible commentary) or pictures (with captions).
- Classes will start, and finish, on time.
- The work area is to be kept clean and free from debris.
- All written material are to be inserted in the Activity Binder provided.
- Each student shall take turns, as assigned, on different days.
- Students shall ensure that they complete their assigned roles each day.
Assessment and Evaluation:
This activity will be used to assess each student’s learning skills. Assessment will be via an Observation Checklist. You will be evaluating each other as well as yourself.
Every student will evaluate themselves and their group members each day.
- Do not, under ANY circumstances attempt to disassemble the power supply within the computer.
- Exercise caution when examining capacitors – they may still retain a charge.
- Use screwdriver carefully and do not use excessive force.
- Be alert for metal edges.
- Move slowly and carefully while removing/inserting parts.
Each group member will be assigned roles which will change daily. Consult the group role-chart at the beginning of your Activity Binder for your groups role assignments.
There are 4 different roles. Expect to be in 3-4 of these roles throughout the week.
Assembler/Disassembler (2 Students)
At the Start of Class: (5 minutes)
- Lay out all tools/parts/and equipment on work tables
- Using appropriate tool(s), removes/returns all parts from the computer.
- All work to be done on an electrostatic pad.
- All work to be done using grounded wrist bands.
- All tools to be handled in a safe, responsible manner.
At the end of Class: (5 – 10 minutes prior to the end of class)
- Clean up any garbage or debris arising from the class activity
- Return all equipment, tools, etc. to side of wall in Room 224
Diagramist/Part Function Describer/Part Identifier (1 Student)
- Takes part from Assembler/Disassembler and verifies part name and area removed from.
- Where required, marks cabling/housing with a marker to assist in re-assembly.
- Where appropriate, places numbered masking tape on part/wire to match it with area removed from.
- Draws a rough sketch of where the part was inside the computer before it was removed.
- Draws a more detailed sketch of the inside of the computer.
- Ensures that all sketches are signed off by the Supervisor and placed inside the Activities Binder.
- Packs up/unpacks camera as required
- Videotapes/takes pictures of all activities in relation to the assembly/disassembly of the computer.
- Operates the camera in a safe manner, following all required safety precautions.
- Responsible for captioning any pictures taken during the day.
- At the beginning of class, ensures that each student understands and is aware of their assigned role.
- Ensures that all activities start/end at the appropriate time.
- Reassigns any students as may be necessary due to absences and/or performance issues.
- Monitors the activities of all students within their group.
- Ensures that all students are completing their assigned role.
- Fills in for any person/role if they are absent or out of the room.
- Monitors the clock to ensure that room will be clear by end of period.
- Takes detailed notes as to what was accomplished during the session.
- Ensures that all written material is placed within Activity Binder.
- Conducts a 2 – 3 minute debrief at the end of the period. Reviews with all the students what worked/what didn’t work.